
Camera image: Canon It's Friday, so it's time to round up recent firmware updates. This week brings an update from Nikon for the Z8, small improvements for some Panasonic cameras and a healthy list of changes from Canon.
In fact, nearly every camera in its lineup has at least a small update, including the R5, R6 II, R8, R3 and R50. The upgrades range from minor (improved network security) to more significant (exposure simulation for flash shooting).
Below, you'll find some of the standout features included in the updates for each camera. There are additional smaller fixes for all, so for full details, be sure to head to the relevant page for each firmware version. Without further ado, let's get into it.
Nikon
Image: Nikon
Nikon Z8 Firmware Ver 3. 01
Nikon's Ver 3. 00 update for the Z8 was a dramatic one, unlocking a long list of new features. But it also caused two distinct issues for third-party lens users, rendering some lenses inoperable or limited in functionality. This update addresses at least part of that, though details are scant. The changelog simply states, "Fixed an issue that prevented the camera from operating properly with some lenses. "
Nikon still has a warning at the top of the firmware download page that cautions against updating firmware with third-party lenses or mount adapters. Thus, it may not fix issues related to upgrading firmware on the Z8 with anything other than Nikon lenses. If you're updating to Ver 3. 01, remove those third-party lenses to be safe.
See details and download the Z8 Ver 3. 01 firmware here.
Canon
Image: Canon
Canon released firmware for a long list of cameras, but it has since pulled back updates for the EOS R1 and R5 II. However, there are still plenty of other upgrades for other devices in the company's lineup.
Canon EOS R5 Ver 2. 2. 0
While the R5 II may not have an update ready yet, the R5 does. It's now compatible with CFexpress cards up to 8TB, which is ideal for videographers who need lots of space. It introduces an auto-protect feature when you rate images, a useful tool for those who cull in camera. The update also allows users to check for and download firmware updates when the camera is connected to the internet. That should make keeping cameras up-to-date much easier and faster (no more excuses).
See details and download the EOS R5 Ver 2. 2. 0 firmware here.
Canon EOS R6 II Ver 1. 6. 0
The R6 II Ver 1. 6. 0 update shares some of the items introduced on the R5, including internet-based firmware downloads, auto-protection for rated images and improved security features. It also promises improved AF tracking performance while zooming in still photo shooting with thee RF24-105mm F2. 8 L IS USM Z , RF70-200mm F2. 8 L IS USM Z and RF100-300mm F2. 8 L IS USM. Additionally, Ver 1. 6. 0 allows users to enable exposure simulates when using flash, so that they can get an accurate preview of lighting.
Additionally, Canon has expanded its Cropping Guide firmware to the R6 II. However, if you want this feature, you'll need to send your camera to a Canon Service Center and it isn't a free standard firmware update. You can also buy the camera with it preloaded now.
See details and download the EOS R6 II Ver 1. 6. 0 firmware here.
Canon EOS R8 Ver 1. 5. 0
The Canon EOS R8 Ver 1. 5. 0 added improved security features and internet-based firmware updates. Plus, the R8 will now allow for exposure simulation while using flash, like the R6 II.
Outside of the standard update, he R8 also now has access to the Cropping Guide feature. Again, you'll either need to pay to send in your camera so that it can be added, or buy a new model with it preloaded.
See details and download the EOS R8 Ver 1. 5. 0 firmware here.
Canon EOS R3 Ver 1. 9. 0
Canon EOS R3 Ver 1. 9. 0 adds improved security features, internet-based firmware updates and auto-protection for rated images. It also makes the R3 compatible with up to 8TB cards and enables exposure simulation with flash. Canon improved AF tracking with the same three lenses as the R6 II.
The one unique update for the R3 is related to transferring images with voice memos via FTP, something sports photographers and journalists may want to be aware of. Now, the voice memo will be sent first, followed by the image.
See details and download the EOS R3 Ver 1. 9. 0 firmware here.
Canon EOS R50 Ver 1. 4. 0
Ver 1. 4. 0 for the EOS R50 is a more subtle update that mostly fixes small issues. However, it does add VR lens support, including the RF-S3. 9mm F3. 5 STM Dual Fisheye and RF-S7. 8mm F4 STM Dual lens. It also fains the convenience of internet firmware updates.
See details and download the EOS R50 Ver 1. 4. 0 firmware here.
Panasonic
Image: Panasonic
S9, S5II, S5IIX, G100D, G97 and ZS99
Finally, Panasonic has released small updates for a number of its cameras. The S9, S5II, S5IIX, G100D, G97 and ZS99 (known as the TZ99 in Europe). Panasonic promises improved operational stability for all models and enhanced security for all except the G97.
See details and download the S9 Ver 1. 5 here.
See details and download the S5II Ver 3. 3 here.
See details and download the S5IIX Ver 3. 3 here.
See details and download the G100D Ver 1. 3 here.
See details and download the G97 Ver 1. 2 here.
See details and download the ZS99/TZ99 Ver 1. 2 here.
. dpreview.com2025-7-18 19:15